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Entry Level Electrical Engineer Jobs in Washington, IA

Entry Level Electrical Engineer information

See Washington, IA salary details

$36.1K

$76.9K

$126.9K

How much do entry level electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level electrical engineer in Washington, IA is $76,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,900.00 and $92,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level electrical engineer do?

An entry-level engineer performs a variety of tasks as part of their job. In this career, your main duties are to design, build, and test electronics, electrical systems, and electrical equipment, such as electric motors or navigation systems. Some electrical engineers design new industrial products, while others work on improving existing systems of products. You are responsible for creating all the standards and specifications, such as manufacturing blueprints, which the production staff reads and carries out. You also ensure that all systems or products meet safety and design standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level electrical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, you need a solid grasp of electrical engineering fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), circuit simulation programs, and industry standards, as well as an EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, is often expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you contribute effectively to projects and collaborate with diverse teams. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate engineering solutions, meeting project requirements, and supporting professional growth within the field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level electrical engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, you'll often assist with designing electrical systems, drafting technical documents, and conducting tests under the supervision of senior engineers. You'll likely work on project teams, contributing to tasks such as circuit design, schematic reviews, and troubleshooting. Early responsibilities typically include supporting senior staff, learning company standards, and participating in client meetings or site visits. This hands-on experience helps new engineers develop practical skills and gain exposure to various aspects of electrical engineering projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Electrical EngineerElectrical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineeringAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of electrical systemsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical equipment
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, power generationConstruction, maintenance, and repair services

While both roles involve electrical systems, Entry Level Electrical Engineers focus on designing and analyzing electrical projects, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Electrical Technicians typically handle installation and maintenance tasks with technical certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and credentials.

What cities near Washington, IA are hiring for Entry Level Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Washington, IA with the most Entry Level Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Electrical Engineer job openings in Washington, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,936 per year, or $37 per hour.

Municipal Water Engineer

Muscatine Power and Water

Muscatine, IA • On-site

$65K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

This role focuses on meaningful electric and water transmission and distribution projects that support reliable service to the Muscatine community. You will manage MPW and federally funded initiatives, including the Lead Service Line Replacement Program and water main replacement efforts, while working closely with consultants, contractors, and field crews. You will also coordinate infrastructure improvements with city planners and industrial and commercial customers and contribute to electric system projects such as pole design and work like the riser structure along Mississippi Drive.
Job Purpose
Provide civil engineering support for on-going electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication projects. Work with internal and external customers to provide engineering guidance and administer contract responsibilities as needed. Work with other departments to schedule work as needed.
This position has a level I and a level II grading based on experience and demonstrated abilities. Tasks are performed at each level based on the individual's knowledge and experience.
Specific Responsibilities
  1. Monitor and coordinate current construction and maintenance projects. Including:
    1. Work with contractors and consultants.
    2. Periodically review and update construction standards and practices.
    3. Apply engineering principles to the evaluation and selection of alternatives.
    4. Assist in the design and layout of electrical transmission and distribution lines, including substation structures.
    5. Assist in the coordination, interpretation, and preparation of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunication system studies and computer models.
    6. Design and document civil and structural components of projects, including site surveys and inspections, drainage systems, foundations, structures, and roadways.
  2. Coordinate engineering activities with industrial and commercial customers. Activities include MP&W policy, technical details, and general assistance with service installations.:

Other Responsibilities
  1. Assist Chief Operations Engineer with technical problems related to the operation and maintenance of electrical and water transmission and distribution, technical services, generation, and telecommunications systems.
  2. Assist with overall system reliability improvement efforts, including the development, population, and use of databases used to track failure, maintenance, and outage issues.
  3. Assist in the development of the annual operating budget and appropriate projections for the department.
  4. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Knowledge
  1. Bachelor's degree in civil engineering preferred.
  2. Civil Engineer I is an entry-level engineering position. Civil Engineer II is a minimum 2 years utility experience preferred.
  3. Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Iowa beneficial for level II position, or working toward certification. If obtained, certification must be maintained while employed in the position.
  4. Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal codes and standards that govern work on electric and water transmission and distribution systems.
  5. Familiarity with CAD and GIS preferred.

Skills
  1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  2. Excellent interpersonal and listening skills, with ability to build productive professional relationships and promote a team atmosphere.
  3. Project management skills.
  4. Good judgment and reasoning skills.
  5. Problem identification, analysis, and solving.
  6. Proficiency with use of Microsoft Office Word at an intermediate level and Excel at an advanced level.

Abilities
  1. Ability to work as part of a team, either as team leader or a member of a team.
  2. Ability to drive results and ensure work is accomplished properly, safely, and in a timely manner.
  3. Ability to work independently, effectively prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adjust work priorities as needed to meet department/organizational objectives.
  4. Ability to develop, read, and interpret drawings, schematics, specifications, and technical manuals.
  5. Ability to distinguish colors.

Other Position Requirements
  1. Must be able to attend work on a regular basis and work extended hours as needed.
  2. Must maintain a method of communication in order to be contacted by MP&W outside normal work hours.

Work Environment
  1. Work environment is primarily in an office environment. Occasional visits to an industrial coal-fired power plant or outside job sites may be required. Fieldwork is completed in all weather conditions.
  2. Must comply with all safety and site rules at all locations.